Atlantic County, New Jersey – A New Jersey man accused of shooting a mother of three in the face during a road rage confrontation is now facing a sweeping 31-count felony indictment, dramatically expanding the criminal case tied to the September shooting that nearly left the victim blind.
Prosecutors say Ernest Heinz, 47, remains behind bars after a grand jury returned the indictment earlier this month, adding numerous weapons-related charges to the original accusations.
What investigators say happened
According to authorities, the incident unfolded on September 11 when Heinz was driving a white Honda CR-V and allegedly cut off another vehicle driven by Maritza Arias-Galva, 42.
When the two vehicles stopped side by side, prosecutors allege Heinz became aggressive, yelling at Arias-Galva and issuing a direct threat. Moments later, as she attempted to roll up her window, Heinz allegedly fired a single gunshot into her car, striking her in the eye.
The victim survived but suffered severe eye injuries that doctors say could result in permanent blindness.
“I’m going to kill you today,” son recalls
In earlier reporting, Arias-Galva’s son described the terrifying moments leading up to the shooting, saying Heinz allegedly told his mother:
“I’m going to kill you today. Today, I’m gonna take care of you.”
Investigators say the gunshot was fired immediately afterward.
Arrest and campus lockdown
Following the shooting, law enforcement launched a rapid search for Heinz that reportedly led to a temporary lockdown at Stockton University, heightening public concern as authorities attempted to locate the suspect.
Heinz was arrested later the same day and has remained in custody since September.
Why the indictment grew to 31 counts
Initially, Heinz was charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault with a firearm, weapons possession, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
However, the new indictment dramatically expands the case. Prosecutors say surveillance footage shows Heinz returning to his parents’ home in Galloway Township roughly 10 minutes after the shooting, allegedly carrying a small handgun consistent with the victim’s description.
Minutes later, he reportedly left the home carrying a black rifle case and a red bag.
Authorities allege Heinz then traveled to a storage facility rented by an acquaintance, where he dropped off multiple firearms before being arrested at his parents’ residence later that day.
Cache of firearms discovered
According to the indictment, law enforcement recovered multiple firearms from the storage unit, including at least one weapon registered to Heinz’s father.
Prosecutors say Heinz was legally prohibited from possessing firearms due to an active restraining order tied to a domestic violence case, making any gun possession a felony offense under New Jersey law.
As a result, many of the new charges stem from illegal weapons possession, along with hindering apprehension and tampering with evidence.
Former acting career noted by prosecutors
Court documents also note that Heinz previously worked as an actor, appearing in small roles in films and television shows including The Sopranos, Resident Evil, and The Prestige. Investigators say he later returned to New Jersey to care for his parents.
Current status and next court date
Heinz remains held without bond at the Atlantic County Justice Facility. Prosecutors consider him a public safety risk due to the severity of the allegations and the volume of weapons involved.
He is scheduled to appear in court on January 30, 2026, where the case is expected to move toward pretrial proceedings.
A case highlighting the dangers of road rage
Authorities continue to stress that road rage incidents can escalate with devastating consequences in seconds. Prosecutors say this case underscores the importance of de-escalation and reporting aggressive drivers rather than engaging.
As the legal process continues, Arias-Galva and her family face a long recovery process, both physically and emotionally, while the accused prepares to answer for one of the most serious indictments tied to a road rage shooting in recent New Jersey history.
Share your thoughts or experiences with road rage incidents in the comments below.
